aging

If you want to enhance safety in and around the home, keep it simple, streamlined, and well-ordered. Make sure that there is ample access in and out of the dwelling, which will aid in emergency situations, prevent accidents, and reduce falls, too. These are benchmarks of National Safe-at-Home Week in August. 

Part of staying safe at home involves accessibility and convenience how safe is your home environment? Observe and honor National Safe-at-Home Week in August to simplify and troubleshoot your living situation to determine if it is well-ordered and as safe as it can be.  

Some things to consider include the following tips: 

Accessibility 

It is important to provide access for emergency personnel, as needed, as well as accessibility within the home environment for those living there. For this reason, decluttering and streamlining belongings around the space can be key. Create a wide berth through the home, allowing extra room around fixtures, toilets, sinks, appliances, etc. for ease and access. 

Furthermore, simplifying your surroundings can make it a lot less laborious to keep clean and tidy. If you use mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers, reducing objects and items from the living space can make navigating these devices easier. If you live on two levels, maybe it makes sense to consolidate to first-floor living; if you have steps or risers around the entry to the home, modify them with a portable or permanent ramp.  

Consider how to enhance accessibility throughout the living environment in your quest to create order and function at home.  

Clutter 

Clutter contributes to the incidence of falls and subsequent injuries. Removing clutter may reduce tripping hazards; did you know that one in four American adults over age 65 fall each year, resulting in around 36 million incidents annually? It’s true, and in fact, approximately 32,000 of these falls are fatal, creating a serious public health issue.  

What can you do to reduce the event of such catastrophes? Clear the clutter and keep things orderly. In addition to relating to accessibility, as previously mentioned, an orderly home is a lot easier to maintain and keep up with, key for seniors that want to remain autonomous and age in place.  

Stress and Strain 

An organized and orderly home environment is less stressful and requires less effort and strain than an untidy, crowded, or disorganized living situation. Over time, stress and anxiety surrounding your living situation can take a toll; enjoy a healthy home. Don’t let disorder or disorganization compromise your quality of life.  

Many older people aim to live life autonomously and to stay in their own home as long as they can do so. This is referred to as ‘aging in place’ and it can be a comforting prospect to those with physical issues, disabilities, or mobility challenges. Create a less stressful environment by making sure that it is accessible and tidy even if that means purging the home of items that you don’t need or that could cause you to fall.  

Did you know that it is easier to maintain an orderly home? That means, less sweat equity on your part! Talk to loved ones about taking items, keepsakes, or heirlooms to enjoy now, so you can get them out of your way and start living a better life.  

Lighting 

There are a few prevalent causes of falls in the home, and one of the primary ones is poor lighting. Make sure that your home is well illuminated; light it up! If you are considering investing in new fixtures or bulbs, go with LED. The reasons that make LED the clear choice include these: 

• LED lasts longer, which means you won’t have to change the bulbs as often.  
• LED can save money over time in bulb replacement costs. 
• LED is cooler to the touch, so there is less chance of getting burned by a hot bulb.  
• LED provides better, brighter light than other options, like incandescent or fluorescent. 

Whether you make the switch to LED or not, make sure that you illuminate the areas of the home that could make you susceptible to falls, like these: 

• Near stairs, steps, or thresholds.  
• Near toilets and sinks.  
• Doorways, entries, and exits.  
• In halls, or other places that you may traverse after dark.  

The initial investment into LED may cost you a few bucks, but you will quickly recoup this expense with savings in bulbs, maintenance, and convenience. Plus, you won’t believe how much better the overall illumination is, providing a much better view of your surroundings. Lighting up the home is a great step toward creating a more orderly living environment that is free from potential hazards and dangers.  

Maintain a safe and well-ordered home with quality mobility aids from Pacific Mobility. From grab bars and shower seats to stairlifts and ramps, we have got you covered. Call or visit today! 

National Senior Citizens Day is the perfect time to honor and gift someone you care about. Since 1988, August 21^st has been set aside to commemorate this demographic; here are some useful and thoughtful gift ideas that any senior will appreciate.  

Ever since Ronald Regan declared it to be National Senior Citizens Day in 1988, people have been honoring and gifting the seniors in their life on August 21st. So, what is a good gift idea for an older individual, especially if they have physical challenges or disabilities that limit their activities? There are some great gift ideas and don’t forget that mobility aids are always in style. Call or visit to learn more!   

Some gift ideas for the seniors in your life include: 

Technology 

There are so many ways that technology can make life easier and safer for seniors and that provide an overwhelming peace of mind for their loved ones. From security systems and video doorbells to Alexa and Siri in the home, help should always be nearby. Furthermore, smartphone capabilities are increasing; see what programs and features are offered on your plans. Give a senior a phone, a device, or even a doorbell- these are all excellent gift ideas.  

Meal Services 

Do you or a senior you love, enjoy cooking? Kitchen accidents happen not just to seniors, but to everyone. There are some ways to make life safer or you could simply gift a meal plan or meal delivery service for your senior this National Senior Citizens Day.  

What do they like to eat? Today, it is easy to find meal services that offer all different kinds of foods, for all different palates. Remember the days when the only food you could have delivered was fresh fruits and who really needs all those pears? Meal service options today include basic, ready-to-serve meals, to more interactive ingredients for an enclosed recipe. The choice is yours!  

Comfort items 

When you think of great gifts, what do you think about? For a senior, it could be a comfort item or something that they may not actually buy for themselves. This will vary depending on the distinct preferences of the senior but some ideas for affordable and appreciated comfort gifts may include these suggestions: 

• Weighted blankets are an excellent idea for anyone that suffers from anxiety, sleep issues, or dementia. They provide a sense of security that aids in relaxation and sleep.  
• Fidget quilts are a therapeutic aid for anyone with anxiety or dementia. They are typically the size of a lap throw with lots of embellishments to ‘fidget’ with.  
• Luxurious throws or blankets are always a welcome, tactile gift.  
• Some exquisite lotion or body care items are often a great idea for those that may not spend the money on themselves.  
• Sumptuous socks or slippers are practical and special.  
• Chocolate can be a nice idea if the senior does not follow a special or restricted diet. In other cases, fresh fruit or other yummy treats may be better suited.  

These are just a few ideas, but there are many more. Consider the comfort items that your loved one might like and use this as a gift guide for National Senior Citizens Day this summer.  

Mobility Aids 

Have you given any thought to mobility aids? Even those that do not need something like wheelchairs or stairlifts can benefit from a number of mobility aids designed to increase accessibility and enhance quality of living. Give the gift of improved mobility with these great ideas: 

• Portable ramps are so handy to have when mobility challenges make steps or stairs difficult. These can be tossed in a vehicle to use when away and when you are unsure what accessibility will be like.  
• Shower seats and benches add a level of safety to the bathroom and may help to reduce the risk of a nasty fall and debilitating injury.  
• Reaching tools help to prevent problems and accidents when trying to access items that are out of reach or up high.  
• Grab bars can be installed easily, in any spot where seniors could use a bit of support or stability. Some popular spots include near the toilets, doors, and stairways of the home.  
• Adaptive aids, like customized or oversized cutlery, for instance, are also designed to make activities of daily living easier. Talk to a mobility professional to learn more.  

What better gift is there than increased accessibility? Access directly relates to autonomy and self-sufficiency; a gift that fosters independence is one to be treasured.  

Your Time 

You know that your time and attention are all that a loved one really wants. Make time and take the effort to spend an afternoon, share a meal, have a cup of tea, or even just have a personal conversation with someone special. These are the times to make cherished memories. Start with something special for National Senior Citizens Day this year! 

Want a great gift for a senior? Call on the team at Pacific Mobility to help. With quality devices and equipment, we have a lot to offer seniors any time of the year!  

When it comes to stairlifts and other mobility aids for that matter, you have a lot of options. Which one is right for you? Depending on the nature of your physical limitation or disability, there are stairlift features that can make life a lot easier and more convenient, too. Here is what you need to know! 

Stairlifts bring value to life in so many ways. First, they increase independence and autonomy for the users, while also maintaining a safer home environment. With so many new and inventive features, there truly are stairlifts for every home environment.

Choose the stairlift that is right for you: 

Curved Stairs 

You don’t need to have a straight stairway to install a stairlift. There are lifts for curved stairs, steep steps, and even winding staircases! The truth is, a custom stairlift can be constructed to suit any distinct, narrow, or difficult staircase or risers. Talk to a mobility professional to find out more!  

Safety Sensors 

If you live in a home environment where there are pets or children, you may be worried about the overall safety of a stairlift. Don’t worry there are safety sensors that stop the lift when something is near or on the track. Furthermore, the seat can be folded in and the lift leaves a wide berth for those that want to walk up or down the steps. A toy or stray object is not going to derail or cause issues for your lift.  

Water Resilient 

So, what about those that want a lift that holds up to the elements? When it comes to water, you want an outdoor lift. As for inside the home, it is recommended that you do not use the lift with beverages that could spill and cause damage to your equipment.  

Weight Restrictions 

Typically, the weight limit for a basic Bruno stairlift is 300 pounds, but there are models that have weight limits of 350 pounds or more. Speak with your mobility dealer to discuss your distinct needs. If you have hesitated about looking closely at a stairlift due to weight issues, don’t put it off another day! These lifts can be customized to meet your needs and the benefits that they bring to users make the initial efforts well worth it. Call or visit today.  

Outdoor Options 

So, speaking of the great outdoors: there is a lift for that. There are several different types of lifts that can get you safely from point A to point B. It depends on your preferences. From stairlifts and porch lifts to vehicle lifts and pool lifts, accessibility should not interfere with your independence. Depending on the property that you are adapting, there are many exciting and inventive options to explore that promise greater autonomy, more convenience, and improved quality of living.  

Small Spaces 

Also, many buyers are under the impression that you must have a wide, lofty stairway to accommodate a lift. Not so. For instance, a spiral staircase can be adapted to a stairlift and those are not typically wide steps. Steep or shallow risers are no problem, either. If you live in a small space, it makes sense to see what options exist that could make your home more accessible.  

Limited Budgets 

Not everyone is working with a big budget when it comes to mobility aids. That is why we offer things like rental services and refurbished lifts, in some instances. Be wary of buying a stairlift from anyone other than a qualified mobility aid technician and never let a layman install or repair your lift. This could nullify the warranty on the equipment. If you need service, simply contact the vendor and schedule your installation, repairs, and inspections at your convenience!  

Amenities and Accessories 

Finally, buyers should know that there are accessories, features, and amenities that you can have custom added to your lift, as desired. The best approach is to visit online sites or brick-and-mortar retailers to see what they have to offer you. From comfy seats to safety belts, each lift has something different to consider.  

Mobility technicians that install your equipment will take the time to discuss and demonstrate how the stairlift works, too. They will field questions and provide you, the customer, with contact information in case you have concerns or problems later. Furthermore, the device should be backed by a warranty or guarantee of satisfaction, so if you are displeased or something goes awry, you have service and support.  

Want to know more about available features and types of stairlifts? You have a lot of choices; use these tips to find what works best for you. Let the team at Pacific Mobility help. They bring expertise and experience to southern California with the highest quality mobility aids and equipment around. Call or visit today.  

Therapeutic recreation engages individuals with recreational-type activities to enhance physical, mental, or developmental wellbeing. Parks and outdoor spaces are a great tool to utilize for therapeutic recreation plus, there is the added benefit of getting out in nature, enjoying the fresh air, and getting some sun therapy, too.

Do you use mobility aids or equipment? If you do, perhaps you could benefit from therapeutic recreation. This is a type of therapy that engages clients in fun, interactive activities to increase holistic health and wellbeing. It is estimated that around 21 million people live with physical disabilities how many would potentially benefit from therapeutic recreation?

In fact, there is a holiday, National Therapeutic Recreation Month, that is set aside for this very institution. Observe National Park & Recreation Month with your own kind of therapeutic recreation and use park and recreation facilities for your activity. Do you know of the nearest park for engaging in some outdoor therapy? Search online for the closest location to you; the parks and recreation office for your area should have a website that details things like accessibility and contact info. Any park that offers classes, events, or activities likely is compliant with handicap accessibility so it should be accessible to you with your mobility aids.

Here are a few ways that parks can be utilized for therapeutic recreation and activities:

Community Classes

What classes does your community offer? It is not uncommon for parks and rec departments, as well as public libraries, to host things like group exercise, tai-chi, or dance in the park. This is an excellent therapeutic recreation option for individuals with varying levels of mobility. Plus, it is a great way to meet like-minded people for socialization, too.

Outdoor Art

Check your local park for outdoor art offerings. If you currently have a recreational therapist, they may make this available to you. It is truly so much fun to paint, draw, or get creative out in nature, it is very inspiring. This is a great therapeutic activity that helps with hand-eye coordination and socialization skills. Again, there are also healing properties connected with spending time in the sunshine, too.

Watery Workouts

The resistance of the water makes for a low-impact and gentle way to get physical activity, in a therapeutic way. Check local parks with pools for water aerobics, or “aquajogging” classes or groups. Individuals that live with mobility issues may find that exercise in water is perfect for reducing joint stiffness and chronic pain.

Walking Clubs

Walking clubs are another way to get therapeutic recreation, in a low-impact way. Walking is a prudent activity for anyone with the physical ability to do so. Ask the park or program coordinators about access for mobility aids; typically, there are handicap-accessible paths and routes that could be perfect for you to get out and enjoy nature. Plus, the socialization of joining a walking club makes it a great activity for all to try.

Animal Therapy

Got a pet? It has been studied and shown that animals offer therapeutic benefits to a wide range of people, young and old alike. If you believe that animal-assisted therapy would be advantageous for you, or someone you love, ask park organizers about programs in your area. Visiting parks with animals, taking pets on walks, or meeting up with rescue organizations at parks for a little one-on-one with a dog or cat all offer a variety of holistic health perks and encourage socialization with others. Area shelters and humane societies may be able to provide more information for events and opportunities in your region.

Gardening Groups

There is something so therapeutic about gardening, getting your hands dirty, and spending time in nature. Many area parks or botanical gardens offer gardening courses, lectures, or events that could be the ideal therapeutic recreation for many. Time spent learning a new skill, doing something tactile, and interacting with others are all helpful skills to hone.

Peer Picnics

Even something as simple as a picnic has therapeutic potential. Interacting with others, preparing food, enjoying a meal, and time spent outside is therapeutic recreation. So, do it; go out and have a picnic! Plan ahead and invite friends. Who doesn’t love a picnic?

Always consult with your physician or provider to ensure these types of therapeutic recreation are appropriate and that you have medical clearance to initiate such activities.

Many can benefit from therapeutic recreation, including those with developmental delays, physical disabilities, and mental illnesses. This model of treatment uses recreation to engage the client or patient, with activities designed to improve overall functioning and wellness by:

• Strengthening basic motor function.
• Building confidence.
• Improving socialization.
• Increasing physical activity.
• Improving mood and /or decreasing anxiety and depression.

Therapeutic recreation is one way to foster a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. If you live with mobility limitations, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility about quality mobility aids that improve accessibility and engagement. Also, ask your provider or doctor about a referral for a recreational therapist and whether it makes sense for you or your loved one.  

Buying quality mobility aids and equipment is an investment but is it a prudent one? The answer is a resounding ‘yes’, and these devices can often be life-changing. A stairlift, for instance, promises returns on your investment that extend far beyond mere money. Some other benefits and returns include time, safety, and autonomy.

Sure, buying quality mobility aids and equipment can get expensive. Is it worth the cost? The answer is a loud and clear yes! There is a return on investment when buying these devices that goes far beyond a few dollars. The benefits of mobility aids can change lives, possibly yours, too.

What is the return on investment when buying a stairlift? The savings may surprise you!

More Access

Perhaps the first and most obvious return from an investment in a stairlift is accessibility; these devices increase and improve access and accessibility in the home environment. If you have a bathroom or bedroom that is upstairs or on another level of the home, a stairlift ensures safe and smooth access to these areas of your home. While many people with physical issues tend to move to the first or most-accessible level of the home, a stairlift allows you full reign and facilitates your everyday activities, tasks, and function.

More Time

Who doesn’t want more time throughout and during the day? A stairlift, as well as other mobility aids, can be timesaving features in the home. They save anyone that uses them time accessing and ascending stairs or steps to complete ADLs, or activities of daily living. Stairlifts are swift and you will confidently go up and down with ease, completing tasks in your own time schedule.

Furthermore, time spent waiting for caregivers or caretakers can be better utilized when you are able to move about the home securely and take care of imminent needs, i.e., using an upstairs bathroom.

More Pleasure

There is something quite pleasurable about being in charge and enjoying full reign over the home environment. A stairlift eliminates potential obstacles from your path and removes them from your day. Plus, all the benefits of a stairlift ensure a greater quality of life; who doesn’t want that? Comfort, pleasure, and life satisfaction are all additional returns on the investment that you make in mobility aids.

More Safety

Okay, it should come as no surprise that safety is a great return on investment when buying a stairlift. Many debilitating falls occur because of treacherous steps or stairs. This could cause individuals to be displaced from their homes for rehab or assisted living.

Take control of your environment and make it safer by installing a stairlift. If you use the upstairs, or if you must ascend or descend steps to fully use your home, this is a prudent investment. Did you know that you can get stairlifts specifically designed for outdoor use, too? Porches, pools, patios, and even your vehicle can be equipped with lifts to make life easier. Consider the possibilities.

More Freedom

Freedom is a wondrous and glorious feeling. Sadly, many of us lose a degree of our freedom as we get older or when we face physical limitations. There is really no price that can be put on autonomy and independence- a stairlift is just one more way to preserve and hang on to it for as long as possible. If your plans include aging in place, staying in your own home, and living life on your terms, a stairlift is more than a practical investment, it is a necessary one.

Talk to a reputable mobility aids retail professional to learn more.

More Peace

One of the most valuable perks of investing in a quality stairlift is the peace of mind that comes with it. Knowing that you or your loved one will be able to safely ascend, descend, and access the upper and lower levels of the home is worth every dime that a stairlift can cost.

Furthermore, many buyers may find that they have insurance to help defray the cost of a new stairlift which makes it an even more prudent investment. The time is now. Don’t let life pass you by. Make the home as accessible and convenient as you can for every member of the family and don’t worry: stairlifts do not impact access to the stairs for others in the home. They are streamlined and quite space conservative, in actuality. See for yourself; visit a mobility retailer online to review various options.

Self–Care Awareness Month in September is the perfect time to commemorate and acknowledge how things like mobility aids can improve everyday life. Take care of yourself and make the investment in mobility aids if you have physical limitations or challenges. Give yourself a new lease on life; call or visit Pacific Mobility today!

Think that mobility aids must be lackluster? Think again there are many tips and tricks to beautify, distinguish, and enhance the utility of the mobility aids that you use, including wheelchairs. In fact, July is National Wheelchair Beautification Month, so it is the perfect time to give your mobility aids a makeover! Consider some easy and clever ways to improve your wheelchair’s aesthetics, too.

Honor and observe National Wheelchair Beautification Month by doing something to enhance the appearance or aesthetics of mobility aids that you or someone you love use. Have some fun and amp-up the utility of your wheelchair, scooter, or other aid with some of the following suggestions. July is a great time to beautify your equipment and to honor this month-long observance.

First, it can help to know a little history about National Wheelchair Beautification Month. An author initiated this annual observance in 2015, and his name was Horace Knowles. He believed that adorning a wheelchair or other mobility aid of the time can change how those using them feel. The founder was also confined to a wheelchair and started adorning his chair with beautiful fresh flowers, asserting that it would help brighten the day for all those he encountered.

Here are a few tips and tricks to beautify your own mobility aid or device:

Simple Embellishments

You don’t need to spend a ton of money or stress yourself out attempting to beautify your wheelchair or scooter or other aid. Stick to something simple like printed tapes, stickers, ribbon, fabric remnants, and even paper to give your mobility aid a festive touch.

Will these modifications expand utility? Probably not but they may bring to smile to the face of someone you see which makes it worthwhile, for sure.

Wheelchair Quilts

Wheelchair quilts are beautiful and personal no two are typically alike. Upgrade your lap throw or favorite blanket with a new and distinctive quilt. If you sew, consider buying online patterns and stitching yourself up a quilt for your lap when using your chair, scooter, or lift. Plus, they help to keep the chill off!

Rim Covers

The push-rims of a wheelchair are the perfect feature to enhance with rim covers. These are available in a broad range of colors and plushness, and they truly make it more comfortable and easier to navigate your chair. Those hard metal rims can be tough to grip. Rim covers serve a practical purpose by making it easier. These are widely found for around $60 online and are simple to install independently.

Unique Amenities

Whatever your lifestyle, consider amenities for wheelchairs and scooters that facilitate these avocations. For instance, do you enjoy fishing? Install a fishing pole holder that is adjustable and versatile, so it fits a range of wheelchairs. Don’t like to fish? Use the simple attachment as a vase for fresh flowers what could be more beautiful than that?

Cups and Holders

Does your wheelchair, scooter, or walker have a cup-holder? This is a great accessory that makes the mobility aid a lot more convenient and useful, too. Make sure that you choose one with a cup that fits securely with great suction or stability. Some variations are hands-free, making it easier for many to drink on the go.

Pouches and Bags

Beautifying your wheelchair during July may be something as simple and fundamental as using a pouch or bag designed to fit your mobility device. Storage bags, lap tray bags, and even wheel cover pouches make it a lot easier to transport what you need safely and discreetly.

Consider bottle holders and soft, neoprene pouches that clip and attach to the chair or chair bar for small, accessible storage compartments. Wheel pouches serve a dual role as a decorative wheel cover as well as a functional storage space. Make sure the ones you buy are easy to wash.

An Umbrella

Don’t get caught in the rain without an umbrella. Invest in a wheelchair umbrella attachment to keep you dry plus it provides nice shade on sunny excursions. These are typically adjustable and can be customized to fit your device. Expect to pay around $20-$25 for a quality umbrella attachment- you bring the umbrella.

Some Sherpa

There is something about sherpa. First, it is super snuggly and comfortable, but it is also durable. Spruce up a cushion or footrest of a wheelchair with sherpa covers, found widely online at variable price points. Sherpa is weather resilient and it can camouflage imperfections that could take away from the aesthetic appeal of your seat.

The first way to honor and observe National Wheelchair Beautification Month in July is to keep your chair or other aids clean. Make sure that accessories are machine washable and wipe the chair down periodically yourself. If you need further tips or tricks for cleaning, check out the information available online or talk to the team at Pacific Mobility to learn more.

Enjoy your Independence Day, but make sure to do so with safety in mind. There are hazards during this time of year that can present danger to seniors or those with physical limitations, particularly. Consider some practical reminders to keep you safe throughout the holiday, and all summer long.

The 4^th of July is one of the most significant and symbolic events for any American- make sure to celebrate it safely. It is estimated that nearly 3,000 accidental deaths occur every July 4^th and most are very preventable. From wearing sunscreen to implementing mobility aids, take strides to stay safe and make the most of this special time of year.

Happy 4^th of July! Here are some tips to enjoy it safely:

Heat

The heat of summer can be a quiet killer. Heat stress and stroke are common when temperatures rise, particularly for seniors or those with physical challenges. Seek shade and limit time spent in the sun- more on that soon! Maintain your air conditioning unit, if applicable, and use fans to circulate the air in the home.

Hey, have you heard about Air Conditioning Appreciation Days? It is a time July 3^rd through August 15^th when people acknowledge and observe the importance of a working AC. Since 1901, air conditioners have been making life cooler for Americans- this holiday is a chance to acknowledge this.

Sun

Too much sun can cause skin and vision damage, as well as certain types of cancers. It hardly comes as a surprise that too much sun can be a bad thing but how can you prevent problems when hanging outside during the 4^th? There are lots of ways, including these tips:

• Cover up with a hat, sunglasses, and long sleeves to prevent nasty burns and the effects of heat stroke.
• Find and take breaks in the shade. Remember that the sun is at its peak between 11 am and 3 pm. Plan your activities accordingly especially if you are particularly sensitive to the sun.
• Wear sunscreen that is at least 15 SPF, and reapply it often, every couple of hours. If you swim, reapply.

Want to learn more? Check out UV Safety Awareness Month online throughout July for information and tips.

Hydration

Are you drinking enough water? Drinking water helps to keep you from becoming dehydrated, which can have devastating effects. Dehydration can cause mood swings, confusion, constipation, and medical distress, none of which you want during your holiday celebration. You need to drink more water when it is hot or if you are physically active or sick.

Water is integral to life:

• Water helps you maintain a normal body temp.
• Water lubricates and provides cushioning to your joints.
• Water helps to protect bodily tissue and protects your spinal cord.
• Water helps to move wastes through the body.

Stay hydrated with these tips for the 4^th:

• Keep a water bottle close at hand throughout your activities and festivities. Refill it often!
• Purposefully order water to drink when eating out plus, it saves money on other beverages!
• Try giving your water some citrus flavor and a shot of Vitamin C with fresh lemon, lime, or orange wedge.
• Infuse water overnight in your refrigerator with fresh fruit, berries, herbs, or veggies, like cucumber, for a refreshing change.

Remember, too, that March 22 is World Water Day, which brings attention to water-related issues across the globe.

Travel

Are you hitting the road for the holiday? Many are venturing out and heading on vacation after being cooped up for far too long. Mobility aids and devices keep you safe when away from home or traveling, like ramps. If you have physical challenges, or if you use a scooter or walker now, ramps make a lot of sense. First, they level out steps or stairs for much easier access, and also, they offer accessibility for mobility equipment like wheelchairs and scooters, wherever you go.

Portable ramps are a cost-friendly option that allows you to take your access on the road with you. These smaller, foldable ramps are easy to implement as needed or when the terrain commands it. From getting around outside to climbing steps or navigating thresholds, portable ramps are a prudent solution for many. Talk to a mobility retail professional to learn more and determine if temporary or permanent ramps are the wisest solution for you this summer.

The 4th of July only comes once a year so celebrate it! If you are fortunate enough to live in the USA, observe and enjoy Independence Day this year, and every year to come. Also, consider these tips and stay safe, whether at home or away on vacation this summer. For mobility aids and equipment to keep you safer, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility; they offer quality devices to increase accessibility and improve quality of life. Happy 4^th of July!

Spending time in the great outdoors may prove challenging for individuals with mobility issues or physical limitations. Accessibility may be impeded out in nature which makes mobility aids and equipment viable and safe ways to enjoy it. Consider the many health benefits of the outdoors and your diverse options for overcoming accessibility issues.

There are numerous advantages to spending time outside in nature, but some people may have less opportunity to enjoy it than others. Issues surrounding accessibility and safety can impede those with physical disabilities or mobility issues from enjoying outdoor green spaces. If you want to enhance and increase your access to these natural sites, consider mobility aids that can improve accessibility.

First, a few of the health benefits of spending time in the great outdoors include:

Holistic Health

The vitamins that you get from the sun can help improve immunity to many different illnesses and viruses. Additionally, according to experts, spending time outside is good for your heart, blood pressure, and even eyesight!

Sleep Hygiene

The fresh air and sunshine that you get from being outside can improve your sleep. It’s true; spending time outdoors can help to reset your sleep cycle, so you awake feeling better rested.

Brain Function

Who would think that being outside helps your cognition, but it does! Spending time outside in nature can make you more creative, improve your memory, and make you sharper mentally, which can manifest in better academic performance for students.

Mental Health

Being outside increases the production of dopamine, which makes you feel good, and that contributes to mental health and wellbeing. Experts say that spending time enjoying the outdoors leads to less stress, better memory, helps treat ADHD, and just puts you in a better mood.

Life Quality

Who doesn’t want to improve their quality of life, if possible? Spending the equivalent of two hours outside weekly, walking, sitting, or other, can improve the overall quality of life, according to experts. This time spent outside enhances a sense of well-being, so you feel more satisfied and content with life.

So, how do you take advantage of these perks if you have physical challenges or mobility issues that impede accessibility to outdoor spaces? The answer may lie in mobility solutions to suit your distinct needs. The best way to determine what could be useful is to meet with a qualified mobility professional to learn more.

Use these mobility aids and tools to help you enjoy time outside safely:

Portable Ramps

When you think of the challenges that await outdoors for those with mobility challenges, rough or steep terrain is probably on the list. A ramp is an excellent solution but these are permanent fixtures, so it limits your options.

On the other hand, a portable ramp is an easy and effective tool to keep in the trunk of your vehicle or on your porch to utilize as needed. These can be unfolded and used with ease while also being convenient to transport to other locations that may be difficult to access. Plus, portable ramps are affordable. Talk to a mobility retail professional to learn more!

Pool Lifts

Do you have a pool? Do you get the opportunity to swim? If you have not been able to fully enjoy your pool, a pool lift may be key in making it far more accessible for you to use. Pool lifts raise and lower the user, so they are not at risk of slippery transfers on slick surfaces.

Furthermore, a lift protects and provides safety for anyone giving assistance or aid to the user. That is, the use of a lift of any kind helps to protect caregivers from injury which is a significant risk for individuals in the field. Get back in the water and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of swimming with your own pool lift; talk to your medical providers to find out how.

Vehicle Lifts

So, what about driving? The challenges of driving a vehicle begin with where and how to stow mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs when you get behind the wheel. Vehicle lifts make simple work of getting in, out, and accessing mobility equipment with ease. These are life-changing aids that can put you back in the driver’s seat and on the road.

There are many other mobility aids that can help you navigate outdoor terrain, and that is quite affordable, too. From wheelchairs and scooters to a wide range of walkers, consumers have a wide range of options to choose from.

If mobility issues or physical challenges are preventing you from getting outside, talk to the team at Pacific Mobility. We offer a wide range of quality mobility aids and equipment to enhance quality of life for anyone who would benefit from mobility assistance. Call or visit today!